How to Get Your Security Deposit Back

Many renters anticipate getting their security deposit back. Having that extra cash at the end of a lease can really help make up for the cost of moving or buying new apartment furniture. You might have even cleaned your apartment to near perfection to get your deposit back. The truth is that getting your hard-earned security deposit back from your landlord isn’t always a guarantee. In fact, only about 40% of renters get their full deposit back, while nearly a quarter walk away empty-handed. The good news? With a bit of due diligence, good documentation, and some effort, you can steer clear of the common pitfalls and improve your odds of reclaiming that deposit in full. Here’s how to do it right, and also leave on good terms. 

What is an apartment security deposit? 

Before you ever move into a rental, you’ll likely be required to pay a security deposit, often an amount equal to the first month’s rent, though amounts can vary. This refundable payment acts as a safety net for your landlord and is, essentially, “just in case” money for things like rent going unpaid, property getting damaged, or if you break the lease terms. Then, once you’ve moved out, you can get your deposit back — usually within 14-30 days, depending on state laws. 

Steps to getting your security deposit back

1. Understand your lease agreement

While a rental lease is an agreement between you and your landlord about the property itself, it’s also a roadmap that will show you how to get your full deposit refunded. Taking the time to carefully read and fully understand what you are signing ahead of time is going to save you a lot of headaches (and possibly the loss of money) down the line. Review these key sections before signing: 

• The exact amount of the deposit
• Reasons for potential deductions, such as unapproved pets or damage from decor
• Requirements for move-out notices
• The timeframe for the deposit return

Not sure what happened to your lease agreement? No need to worry. Simply contact your landlord or property manager and request a copy — it’s your right to access it. 

2. Document the apartment’s condition at move-in

Making sure you get your deposit back doesn’t start when you begin cleaning for move-out day, but instead, from the very day you move in. Take detailed, time-stamped photos or videos of every room and pay attention to any pre-existing damage. You can use a rental walk-through checklist to ensure you don’t overlook anything. Some common areas to keep an eye on include: 

• Walls
• Floors
• Appliances
• Windows
• Fixtures
• Toilets and Faucets

Having these documented records helps make sure you won’t get blamed — or charged — for any damages that weren’t your fault. In fact, 75% of renters who documented their previous rental’s move-in condition got at least some of their deposit back. Those who completed a condition checklist and combined photos, videos, and told their landlord had even better results with an 80% likelihood of getting some back and a 50% chance of getting their full deposit back. 

3. Give proper written notice

Most leases require tenants to provide written notice when they intend to move out, usually 30-60 days in advance. In this notice, you should include your plan to vacate, a forwarding address, and a polite request for your deposit return. Send this notice via email or certified mail, so you have proof of delivery, if there are any questions or disputes later. 

4. Repair and clean before moving out

One of the most common reasons landlords can, and will, hold back a security deposit is if you didn’t leave the place in good condition. Issues with things not being repaired in the space were one of the most common sources of conflict between renters and landlords, with about one in five (19%) renters reporting disagreements over property damage or maintenance, according to a Zillow survey. This is why taking care of the space before you leave is so important.

Some things to focus on before moving out: 

• Take care of minor repairs: Some repairs might seem small to you, but going out of your way to take care of them will leave a good impression on your former landlord. Start by patching up nail holes or any marks you might have accidentally left behind and replace burned-out light bulbs for a quick and easy fix. You can also look around and check for any loose fixtures, like wobbly cabinet handles or door knobs, and tighten them up.
• Deep clean like a pro: A clean rental will leave you with a happy landlord. Roll up those sleeves and give the entire space the cleaning of a lifetime. That means mopping and vacuuming the floors, wiping down baseboards, cleaning out the fridge, etc. A spotless space means less reason for your landlord to hold back any of your deposit. Use our cleaning checklist to stay on-task.
• Double-check your move-in photos: If you can’t remember if you caused that random stain on the floor, now is the time to refer back to those photos you took before. If a problem was caused during your stay, try and rectify the problem before your landlord sees it. 

Remember, landlords can’t charge you for general wear and tear, like minor scuffs, older carpet, or issues that were there before you moved in. But they can charge you for excessive dirt, stains, or any damage you caused that you didn’t address before move-out. 

5. Take move-out photos

After everything is all nice, clean, and empty, it is time to take time-stamped photographs or videos to document the final post-move-out condition. Make these as detailed as possible, covering every corner of the space, fixtures, and appliances. You should aim to take the same number of photos or videos from the same angle as your move-in documentation. All of this documentation will prove that the apartment was left in good condition if any discrepancies or disputes over the deposit pop up. 

6. Return all keys and passes

Once your former rental is cleaned up and all your stuff is out of there, hand over all keys, fobs, parking permits, or devices associated with the property directly to your landlord. If you don’t return these items, you could have to pay replacement fees. Ask for a written acknowledgement that you’ve turned in all these items to steer clear of future issues. 

7. Request a walk-through inspection

Before you call things done with your old rental, contact your landlord and ask if they will come by for a formal walk-through. This is when you can address any concerns they have or discuss problems with the rental on the spot. This step can help point out any issues and allow you to fix concerns, instead of facing potential deductions from your security deposit later. 

8. Provide a forwarding address

If you want your landlord to send your deposit to you, you will naturally have to leave them with a way to reach you. Make sure they have a correct forwarding address, so you don’t delay your refund from reaching you. 

When do I get my security deposit back? 

The usual time allowed by a state to refund security deposits is 14 to 30 days after you move out, and your landlord should also provide an itemized statement if they decide to make any deductions. 

Didn’t get your full return? The most common reasons for security deposit deductions include: 

• Unpaid rent
• Damage beyond just normal wear and tear
• Costs for cleaning or repairs
• Broken fixtures or appliances

If you don’t get back your deposit within the timeframe laid out by your lease or state’s laws (or if you think the deductions made by your landlord are unfair), send a polite follow-up email or letter. This is where you can include any documentation, such as photos, payment receipts, and a copy of your lease, to support your claims. However, if your landlord refuses to send your deposit, it might be time to take additional steps, including:

• Send a formal demand letter for your deposit 
• File a complaint with the housing authority of your state
• Pursue small claims court as a last resort. 

Getting your security deposit back — especially in full — takes organization, communication, and a little effort. When you understand your legal rights and follow the right steps, you can avoid disputes and increase your chances of seeing that money back in your wallet. If you’re ready to move on to a new rental, start your search on Zillow to find a place that’s right for you.